Automakers want to hire, but there is a lack of qualified workers in Brazil

Unprecedented survey commissioned by Ford reveals that lack of technical knowledge and fluency in English are the main bottlenecks for hiring

Shortage of skilled labor affects areas such as artificial intelligence, software, and information security (Photo: GWM | Disclosure)
By Júlia Haddad
Published on 2026-05-11 at 08:00 AM
Updated on 2026-05-11 at 08:35 AM

The Brazilian technology market is experiencing a scenario of critical scarcity: 98% of medium and large companies face difficulties in filling vacancies in the sector. The data, revealed by the unprecedented survey “Tech Labor Market: X-Ray and Trends”, prepared by Ford in partnership with Datafolha, exposes the mismatch between the speed of innovation and the availability of qualified professionals in the country.

The survey consulted 250 HR and Information Technology leaders from various segments, such as retail, finance and health. According to the study, the lack of technical skills is the main obstacle for 72% of respondents, while 54% point to the lack of experience as a barrier. Artificial Intelligence specialists (35%) and software engineers (31%) lead the list of most difficult roles to fill.

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The survey also raises an alert about the so-called “soft skills”. About 37% of companies often reject technically apt candidates due to a lack of emotional intelligence or critical thinking. Language is another severe filter: 78% of companies disqualify those who do not have command of English. This bottleneck is reflected in recruitment time, with only 14% of vacancies being closed in less than a month.

This movement of talent shortage gains clearer contours with the entry of technology giants in the automotive sector. The scenario requires companies to invest in their own training. In response, the Ford <Enter> program offers free training in areas such as Python and Data Science for people in vulnerability. With more than a thousand graduates, the project is open for registration for new classes in São Paulo until May 3, aiming to reduce the abyss between market demand and labor supply.

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